Alternative Therapies

Lecithin owes its name to the Greek word ‘lekithos’ meaning egg yolk. Lecithin is an important phospholipid (a fatty compound) that is produced by our body. Since lecithin is not produced adequately by the body, this essential nutrient, required by every cells of our body, must be obtained from diet. A typical lecithin diet may consist of soybean, liver, lentils, eggs, chickpeas, wheat germ, etc.

Commercially, lecithin is obtained in the form of capsules and liquids. Each tablespoon of lecithin granules may approximately contain phosphatidyl choline- 1700 mg, essential fatty acids- 2200 mg and phosphatidylinositol-1000 mg.  In addition, lecithin granules contain omega-3 fatty acid.

Benefit of Lecithin
Listed below are some of the important benefits of lecithin:

• Lecithin Reduces Cholesterol Level: Since lecithin is made of fat, it adheres to the lining of cells and nerves and prevents cholesterol and such other fats to stick to it. This could reduce the ability of the body to absorb LDL (bad cholesterol), thereby lowering total cholesterol level.
• Lecithin Prevents Coronary Artery Disease: It is suggested that by forming a fatty lining around the cells, lecithin prevents deposition of fats around it. By preventing blood clots, fatty buildup around the artery walls and boosting blood circulation lecithin may prevent coronary artery disease.
• Lecithin Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease: By forming a sheath-like covering around the neurons (nerve cells), lecithin may prevent accumulation of plaques in between cells. Since Alzheimer’s disease is marked with formation of plaques and tangles within the brain, lecithin may check the progression of the disease.
• Lecithin for Liver Health: Experts believe that lecithin may help in breakdown of fats and prevent their accumulation around the liver cells. This may check cirrhosis of liver, gallstones, etc.

Lecithin Effects
Till now, no major side effect of lecithin is known. Lecithin may cause some minor effects like vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, nausea and anorexia.